Ritz and Webb showed a generation of high school kids that they could break records and compete at levels equal to or higher than anything done by American prep distance stars in the past.

Meb and Deena showed American distance runners that they could compete with the best in the world, on the biggest stage, and come away with shiny hardware dangling from their necks.

For the past 10 years, American distance running has taken great strides forward, with a few athletes even stepping up on podiums in the Olympics, World Championships and major marathon races. With such great strides comes the needed reminder that American distance running can take even another step forward, and the latest reminder came on Saturday, when Galen Rupp charged to the finish line in the men’s 10k, taking home the silver medal.

Since 1964, no American man had won an Olympic medal of any color in the 10,000 meters. It was an elusive feat, as many in our sport questioned whether an American male could ever earn a spot on the awards stand ever again.

Then came Rupp. Since his days as a prep sensation at Central Catholic High School in Portland, you knew he was special talent. Distance great Alberto Salazar took Rupp under his wing, creating a long-term plan that would develop him over many years, building strength, maximizing speed and keeping healthy. It’s a long-term plan that worked to perfection in London.

At no point has Salazar publicly questioned his plan for Rupp and at no point has Rupp publicly questioned the plan from Salazar. The two trust each other implicitly and that trust has led to Rupp becoming the greatest American distance runner of all time.

As Rupp took his victory lap around Olympic Stadium, it was worth imaging what his performance could mean for the next generation of American distance runners. He’s reinforcing that consistent development, hard work and mental toughness can lead to great performances. He’s showing that the fear of facing foes with seemingly more talent can be overcome with persistent drive and focus.

Rupp is inspiring and giving the next generation of distance stars an example of how to do things right, one stride at a time.